...for the best tattoo shop in Charlotte by the readers of the local alternative weekly newspaper "Creative Loafing." No shop had ever achieved both in a single year and Ace has since done this on many other occasions. Two years later, Ace moved to 1525 Central Ave., Charlotte. Fritz left just before the move and was replaced by Chad and Ace quickly became the place to get tattooed. Three years later, family matters caused Chad to move on and in a bid to staff the shop with only the best the word went out and Rodney Raines was brought into the fold. While Nick focused primarily on running the business Colin and Rodney inspired one another and began making names for themselves on the convention circuit. Unfortunately Colin was also trying to develop his musical career (making a name for himself as a local drummer in such bands as "Sound of Mine" and "The Aqualads") which took him out of Charlotte and off to LA in search of a recording contract. It was no tough decision to bring Chris Stuart into Ace, since he and Rodney had worked together before.

On June 29th, Ace Custom Tattoo moved out of its Central Ave. location around the corner to 1312 Thomas Ave. Many things changed with this move. Nick is easing out of the tattoo business to pursue other efforts, and Rodney is taking over. Nick is still tattooing at Ace on weekends, so if anyone wants work from him, there is no time better than the present.

The shop is building its new character quickly. New Flash art is being installed, and another artist has been brought into the new environment. LiL Tommy arrived from Greensboro, most recently working for Little John at Little John's Infinte Art.

Ace is, now more than ever, the place to come to get a tattoo. As we moved from one location to another, the critics and readers (of Creative Loafing) agreed that Ace Custom Tattoo is the best place to get a tattoo in the 2003 issue......and that was before the new improved facility was open. Ace will always strive to bring the next level of tattooing to Charlotte, and will continue to pull national and international magazine's attention. The tattooists will remain front-runners of the tattoo industry and other aspects of the fine art world as they travel on the convention circuits and participate in gallery showings across the country.

The larger plan is to bring artists from around the country, and even the globe, to do guest spots at the shop. Once the shop is completely situated, Ace Custom Tattoo will bring tattooists from near and far to tattoo in Charlotte, so keep in touch, and come get tattooed.